How to Restore Hemp Rope

Hemp is a natural fiber like cotton and linen and requires similar care when you clean it. A good hemp rope is a significant investment and proper care will keep it in excellent condition. It may get dirty and stained over time, but can be cleaned with environmentally friendly products in your washing machine.

Things You'll Need

Hemp rope

Plastic mesh bag

Washing machine

Mild laundry soap like Ivory or Dreft

White vinegar

Nonchlorine bleach (optional)

Cotton rag

Jojoba oil

Loosely loop the rope and secure it at four equidistant points with cotton string. A convenient loop size is the distance between your thumb and elbow.

Put the rope in a plastic mesh bag large enough to hold the rope. Tie the end of the bag shut to keep the rope from escaping and forming a hideous tangled mess.

Place the bag of rope in the washing machine and select a cold or warm setting. Add the soap powder to the washer and put the white vinegar in the rinse dispenser cup. If the rope is badly stained, add a nonchlorine bleach to the wash cycle.

Remove the bag of rope from the washing machine after the cycle is complete. Take the rope out of the mesh bag and lay it on a flat surface to dry, spreading the rope out to ensure faster drying. Laying it out in the sun will also help remove stains.

Saturate a cotton rag with the jojoba oil and rub it the length of the rope. Repeat the process, going in the opposite direction. Work in the oil with your hands. Repeat this step a few times if the rope is old and dry.